Scale modes are played by starting the Major Scale on a different note than the root.
Example: the A Dorian Mode is played by starting on the second note of the G Major Scale.
Notes used in the G Major Scale
| G | A | B | C | D | E | F♯ | G |
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
Using the notes of the G Major Scale, and starting on the A note, or the second note, the dorian mode is formed, in this case A Dorian (A, B, C, D, E, F#, G).
G Major Scale
A Dorian
The Scale Modes
Ionian Mode - same as the Major Scale, starting on the first (root) note .
Dorian Mode - starting on the second note.
Phrygian Mode - starting on the third note.
Lydian Mode - starting on the fourth note.
Mixolydian Mode - starting on the fifth note.
Aeolian Mode - starting on the sixth note.
Locrian Mode - starting on the seventh note.